Brechtel Park is an urban park located on the west bank of the Mississippi River in the Algiers section of Orleans Parish. In 1971, 112 acres were acquired with an LWCF grant of $711,845. Two LWCF development grants ($861,997) were used to construct a lagoon, trails, picnic shelters, tables and barbeque pits, playground equipment, restrooms, 2 ballfields with bleachers and backstops, drinking fountain, and, on scout island, a large pavilion, picnic units and 30 tent sites.1 Brechtel Park is also an important stop for many species of migratory birds and was recently designated as an America’s Wetlands Birding Trail.2
Since even before Hurricane Katrina, Brechtel Park has fallen into disrepair and has had restricted access.3 Voters approved the issuance of bonds for capital improvements to Brechtel Park in 2000 and 2004.
Too many children are missing the fun, friendship and exercise a good park provides. Too many neighborhoods are losing the sense of community that thrives around a vibrant park. All that is changing because a group of citizens are investing time, energy, effort and money into our neighborhood park through the Friends of Brechtel Park -- showing what can happen when friends decide to make a difference. As a result of the community's involvement, City officials recently committed over $4 million to invest in the park and the adjacent golf course over the next few years.
FN3. Langenhennig, Susan, Brechtel Park opens as a work in progress, Times Picayune (July 2, 2006)
Video by Lisa Heindel.
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